An intense and eventful half-year is coming to an end – and there is much to be proud of. Recently, I had the privilege of leading the international conference, QUIS19 – The 19th International Research Symposium on Service Excellence in Management, in Rome. Over 275 participants from around the world gathered to be inspired and to discuss how research can help address the major societal challenges of our time – such as AI development and sustainability. It was a meeting marked by engagement, optimism for the future, and important conversations.
The conference, which started in Karlstad in 1988, has grown into a global platform – with CTF and Karlstad University continuing to be an important voice. Next time, we will gather at Cambridge University.
But it’s not only at international research conferences that research issues are discussed and where our researchers make an impact. This spring, many researchers from CTF have been visible in various contexts – spreading knowledge and inviting dialogue on how we can shape a more sustainable society.
Soon, I will be traveling to Almedalen, where I will participate in a panel alongside director generals and decision-makers. We will discuss how academia and public authorities can collaborate to drive societal development through knowledge and innovation – a topic that is more relevant than ever.
Our research is also disseminated through various publications – both scientific and popular science. In our latest annual report, you can read more about what we have accomplished over the past year. I feel both proud and humbled by the warm reception of my book “Rätt räcker inte” (“Right Is Not Enough”), which was released in May. The discussions in the media show that there is great interest in understanding how our behaviors are shaped – and how we can collectively influence the future in a positive direction.
I look forward to a summer filled with French wines, Niçoise salad – my favorite – and inspiring reading. This summer, I will read Kurt Vonnegut’s “Player Piano”, a dystopian reflection from the 1950s, that hopefully will offer new perspectives on our present time.
A big thank you to colleagues and research partners – your commitment makes a difference every day. I wish you all a relaxing, sunny, and rejuvenating summer!
Per Kristensson
Professor and Director at CTF
